Generational Differences In Moliere's Tartuffe

Generational differences are consistent through Moliere's Tartuffe. Yet, the period in which this narrative occurs may not read well to a modern audience who may not be familiar with family dynamics of the time. Staging the play in modern-day Manhattan, New York, highlights the generational differences between characters in Tartuffe, allowing modern audiences to relate to the comedic themes in the play.

In the opening scene, Madam Parnell's criticisms resemble criticisms of many Baby Boomers, directed at today's youth. She asserts that their behavior proves "extremely bad, and a poor example for these children" (9). Madame Pernell fits the modern "judgmental grandmother" archetype, with high expectations. A modern Madame Pernell, likely raised in a household with traditional roles, finds her …show more content…
Choosing to dress the characters unaligned with Tartuffe as trendy, native New Yorkers positions them as more modern and relatable to a modern audience. Tartuffe's response and subsequent commentary on Dorine's choice of dress, for example, creates a comedic moment in which she highlights his hypocrisy. She states that his "soul, it seems, has very poor defenses, And flesh make an impact on your senses My own desires are not so easily ignited" (83). The contrasting moral roles create a comedic juxtaposition in this moment. The audience could expect promiscuity from Dorine through her revealing costume. Yet, she proves the stronger and more moral party, as Tartuffe remains distracted by her clothes and body. The audience again sees the power of the youth in this play. Dorine expresses herself without apology, whereas Tartuffe reveals his hypocritical nature. This moment would read well as set in a modern context, to an audience familiar with clothing trends and the criticisms that